Leading God’s People
Scripture teaches that the local church should be led by elders and deacons (Phil 1:1), not just by the senior pastor. This “Presbyterian” form of leadership provides for a plurality of servant-hearted men who are elected by the congregation itself and set apart by God (“ordained”) to serve in this high calling of caring for Christ’s church.
Jump down to the nomination form
Each year, River Oaks solicits nominations for candidates for elder or deacon. Nominees then undergo an multi-week training course where they evaluate their sense of calling as well as develop knowledge and skills needed for the task. At our congregational meeting in December, qualified nominees will stand for election by the congregation.
What Are the Qualifications?
Two key scripture passages outline the character qualifications that God has set forth for elders and deacons. While no one this side of heaven is perfect at all of these categories, a man whose life and testimony generally conforms to this pattern set forth by God could be considered for candidacy as a church officer.
While we need and encourage all women to use their spiritual gifts in a variety of capacities in church life, we are convinced that Scripture teaches that these two church offices are limited to qualified and ordained men.
1 Timothy 3:1-13
The saying is trustworthy: If anyone aspires to the office of overseer, he desires a noble task. 2 Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3 not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. 4 He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive, 5 for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church? 6 He must not be a recent convert, or he may become puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil.
1 Timothy 3:1-13 (ESV)
8 Deacons likewise must be dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for dishonest gain. 9 They must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10 And let them also be tested first; then let them serve as deacons if they prove themselves blameless. 11 Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well. 13 For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Titus 1:7-9
For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, 8 but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. 9 He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.
Titus 1:7-9 (ESV)
Find out more about the biblical terminology for elders.
What Do Elders and Deacons Do?
Elders have the primary responsibility for the spiritual care of our church members (1 Pet 5:1-3). Each elder has a group of individuals and families for whom he prays regularly. The elders as a body are also accountable for ensuring the church adheres to sound doctrine in its preaching and teaching, thus guarding the people of God from falsehood. And the elders collectively administer the formal leadership duties and church discipline of the church.
Deacons serve in three main capacities: overseeing the stewardship of the church’s financial resources (and cultivating the grace of giving among church members), coordinating the church’s efforts at meeting the tangible needs of those within and outside the church, and administering the care and upkeep of our facilities and property.
Nominate a Candidate
The deadline for officer nominations is October 3rd. The training begins October 11. Prior to nominating someone, you are encouraged to speak with him first to ensure he is willing to be considered. Additionally, nominees must be a member of ROC in good standing for at least one year. To see our current elders and deacons, visit the Leadership page.
Note: Only communing members of River Oaks are permitted to nominate an officer candidate.
